TESTER Naval Air Station Patuxent River
VOLUME 71, No. 10
NAVAIR Black Engineeer of the Year Page 2
X-47B Team Wins Award Page 8
Problem Solved With Facilities Coordinator Page 13
Celebrating 70 Years of Community Partnership
March 13, 2014
U.S. Naval Test Pilot School turns 69
U.S. Navy photo/Gary Younger
Thomas Ridley, a Naval Air Systems Command Leadership Development Program participant, believes job rotations such as the one he experienced with the H-53 Heavy Lift Helicopter Program, are critical to growing one’s career.
Learning on the fly with job rotations By Emily Funderburk Naval Air Systems Command Total Force Communications Support
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areer development, just do it. That’s what Thomas Ridley, a Propulsion Team lead and member of the NAVAIR Leadership Development Program (NLDP), believes. And, he did just that when he took on a challenging, fast-paced job rotation assignment with the H-53 Heavy Lift Helicopter Program (PMA-261) in 2013. Job rotations, in which an employee performs temporary duties to acquire new skills or knowledge, most often outside their department or program, are a requirement for NLDP participants. Job rotations provide many benefits, according to NLDP Manager Stephanie Gleason, including cross-training, networking and gaining a greater perspective of the NAVAIR as a whole. In Ridley’s case, his rotation also benefited PMA-261 directly because he filled a critical acquisition position that would have been otherwise vacant for seven months. “The entire PMA-261 team was a ‘forward leaning’ program of brilliant ideas and firsts, a group of out-of-thebox thinking professionals who focus on migrating the issues of tomorrow, today,” he said. “It was certainly a fast learning environment; right away, I knew it was going to be a sink or swim rotation, so I buckled up and caught the wave.”
See Career, Page 4
By the numbers
4,140 144
Classes held to date
Total number of students since March 12, 1945
Courtesy photos
88
USNTPS graduates who are or have been astronauts Rear Adm. Alan Shepard, Class 5, first American in space. Senator John Glenn, Class 12, first American to orbit the Earth and the oldest human in space. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Charles Bolden, Class 75, the 12th NASA administrator, a position he still holds.
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Number of countries that send students to the test pilot school: Australia, Canada, France, Finland, Germany, Great Britain, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Singapore, Sweden and Switzerland.
Helping Sailors, Marines prepare for family’s new arrival By Donna Cipolloni Tester staff writer
Next Budget for Baby class
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xpecting parents anxious to welcome their little one may not fully realize what a bundle of money their bundle of joy is going to cost them. According to the most recent statistics available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a family earning less than $60,640 can expect to pay a total of $173,490 on a child from birth through 18 years; and for incomes up to $105,000, that amount climbs to $241,000. With that in mind, it’s never too early to start planning and budgeting for baby — and the Navy-Marine
See NMCRS, Page 10
10 a.m. to noon, March 26 Building 401 Call 301-342-7439
Special Gift
Every participant receives a junior sea bag filled with baby items and a crocheted blanket handmade by a Society volunteer.
Eligibility Courtesy photo
Naval Air Station Patuxent River Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society volunteers Patrice, Erica and Amelia Ryan showcase a few of the baby blankets they crochet and hand out to participants in the monthly NMCRS Budget for Baby class.
Active-duty or retired Sailors and Marines; their eligible family members; Reservists on extended active duty of 30 days or more.
For More Information
Visit www.nmcrs.org/b4b
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Sixteen NAVAIR employees win Black Engineer of the Year awards
By Emily Funderburk Naval Air Systems Command Total Force Communications Support
Sixteen Naval Air Systems Command employees won National Black Engineer of the Year Awards (BEYA) for their efforts in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at the STEM Global Competitiveness Conference, Feb. 6-8, in Washington, D.C.
Community Service Award: Paige Lewter
Paige Lewter, an electronics engineer at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, won a community service award for her volunteerism and leadership in the STEM communities, including the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Global Village Learning Center. “She exhibits the qualities of a true black engineer, who is dedicated not only to her work, but also dedicated to serving the community,” said Coolidge Hamlett Jr., the 2004 BEYA Community Service winner. Lewter has been a member of NSBE since attending North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. After graduating and beginning work at NAVAIR, she helped establish a NSBE Jr. chapter in Southern Maryland — the first in the area — in 2012 to interest middle and high school students in pursuing STEM careers. She has since created several hands-on activities and events and raised money for students to attend STEM events in Washington, D.C., and Indianapolis. Lewter also serves as the technology chair for her sorority’s Xi Rho Omega chapter, helping develop STEM workshops for middle school
Paige Lewter, an electronics engineer, winner of the 2014 Black Engineer of the Year Community Service Award.
Katrina Mansfield, project engineer and winner of the 2014 Black Engineer of the Year Science Spectrum Trailblazer Award.
girls. She mentors and tutors students in STEM subjects at the Global Village Community Learning Center in Lexington Park, an afterschool program that promotes family, youth and community development. “Through Ms. Lewter’s efforts and accomplishments, it is clear that she is extremely dedicated to her efforts to serve the community while developing the next generation of STEM leaders and is serving as a role model for the kids that she impacts,” wrote William Redmond, NSBE region II professionals chair, in the award nomination.
actively creating new paths for others in science, research, technology and development. She managed numerous small business innovative research initiatives in Naval Air Systems Command’s Science and Technology Department. Working with a panel of engineers, she evaluated multiple small company proposals and eventually helped manage several million dollar contracts. She helped cultivate the small companies’ technology to an end product in support of the Department of Defense and the naval fleet. Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed; she won the People’s Choice Award for Small Business Innovative Research in 2012. For Mansfield, her biggest career accomplishment was supporting the first successful Navy Unmanned Combat Air System flight as the communications technical lead.
Science Spectrum Trailblazer Award: Katrina Mansfield
Katrina Mansfield, F/A-18D Hornet Malaysia acting class desk and avionics systems project engineer at Pax River, won the 2014 BEYA Science Spectrum Trailblazer Award for
Courtesy photos/Katrina Mansfield
Naval Air Systems Command 2014 Modern Day Technology Leadership Award winners, from top left, Brian Moses, Richard Bowling, Lonnie Snead, Arthur Nwokoye, Angel Perez, Warren Davis, Ericka Cottman, Stan Goss, Teia Fennoy, Maurice Patterson and Monet Wilson. “Seeing all of the work done with the platform come to fruition over a short period of time was an awesome and fulfilling experience,” she said.
Modern Day Technology Leadership Award
NAVAIR also had 12 Modern Day Technology Leadership Award winners: Richard Bowling, Ericka Cottman, Warren Davis, Teia Fen-
noy, Stan Goss, Brian Moses, Arthur Nwokoye, Maurice Patterson, Angel Perez, Lonnie Snead, Chibueze Uchendu and Monet Wilson. According to BEYA, these winners are men and women who have demonstrated outstanding performance and who will shape the future of STEM. Kami Downey and Nicole Theberge also won Special Recognition for Most Promising Engineer awards.
Bravo Zulu from the CO Naval Air Station Patuxent River leaders present employees who receive positive feedback and comments through the Interactive Customer Evaluation system and for going above their normal duty with a Bravo Zulu (BZ) award as a token of appreciation for a job well done. Here is a BZ presented by the Naval Air Station Patuxent River Commanding Officer, Capt. Ben Shevchuk.
Naval Air Station Patuxent River Fire and Emergency Services, Engine 132 Quint 13; presented Feb. 26. Courtesy photo
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Thursday, March 13, 2014
Pax Pros of the Week Pax Pros of the Week are submitted to and selected by Naval Air Station Patuxent River’s Command Master Chief, CMDMC William LloydOwen. The certificates presented serve as recognition for the “hard work and dedication” the individuals display on a daily basis.
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER:
Start finding peace through self-discipline and control By Father Mike Dolan St. Nicholas Chapel
Courtesy photos
Petty Officer 3rd Class Jacob Romijn, right, NAS Air Operations air traffic controller; presented Feb. 26.
Terry Davis, Child Development Center; presented Feb. 26.
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For many, preparing for Easter and the liturgical season of Lent calls for renewal through almsgiving, prayer and fasting. Because it is penitential in nature, it almost invariably conjures up a sense of isolation and gloom. The image associated with the word Lent is very likely the man mentioned in Isaiah 58:5 with head bowed like a reed lying in sackcloth and ashes; hardly a peaceful existence. Yet Jesus said to his disciples, “I leave you peace, my peace I give you.” Scripture tells us that mental and physical abuse, at times leading to death, are likely possibilities for his followers. So where is the peace in that? The answer lies in one’s definition of peace. Secular peace is a “getting” experience which is inwardly focused and characterized by docility, pridefulness and personal security, and manifested by complacency, apathy and compromise. Some might even see this state as happiness. Unfortunately, happiness is
Unfortunately, happiness is fleeting; it comes and goes since it is subject to the unpredictably of life. fleeting; it comes and goes since it is subject to the unpredictability of life. It is not peace of mind. On the other hand, Christ’s peace is a “giving” experience, doing what is right no matter the consequences in order to accomplish what ought to be done. His peace is joy, which no one or circumstance can take away. It is not influenced by the unpredictability of life. His peace comes from self-discipline and self-control; it comes from knowing that the battle, though hard-fought, can be won. It comes from accepting that you are your brother’s keeper. Above all, it comes from knowing that
Father Mike Dolan you are one with St. Paul who said in Galatians 2:20, “It is not I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” It gives not only peace of mind, but peace of heart and soul that constitute the essence of joy. Lent is not a season of gloomy isolation, it is a joyfully communal experience; and as Jesus said in Matthew 6:1-18, we should look and act accordingly. As Paul said to the Corinthians, in 2 Corinthians 5:20, “We are ambassadors for Christ;” as such, what the world knows of Christ and will ever know of him will largely be made known through us. As Christians, that is our commission, our calling and our duty.
NEWS BRIEFS On base: Additional Passes Required for NCACS
Beginning Friday, all NCACS (RAPID GATES) ID cardholders are required to show an NCICvetted pass for base access. These NCIC-vetted passes are issued at the Gate 2 Pass and ID Office. To minimize the wait time and several trips to the Pass and ID Office, all contracting companies with NCACS ID cardholders must contact their government points of contact to ensure their personnel are updated in the local database (BASICSII), and contact EID to ensure their NCACS accounts are current prior to reporting to Pass and ID for the pass. To prevent backups at the gate, NCACS ID card holders are strongly encouraged to pick up their NCIC-vetted pass prior to Friday. Beginning Friday, gate sentries at each gate will send NCACS ID card holders without the NCIC-vetted pass to the Gate 2 Pass and ID Office to be vetted before entry.
Drill Hall Courts Temporary Closing Dates
Drill Hall basketball courts No. 1 and No. and 2 are secured after 3 p.m. Wednesday for set up of the
Navywide exams. Drill Hall playing courts and the fitness area on the varsity basketball floor are secured from 7-11:30 a.m. today and March 20 for the administration of the exams.
Pax Legal Office Closures
March 20-21 and 26 The Region Legal Service Office Naval District Washington, Branch Office Patuxent River, is closed for a command function. Legal assistance and command services will not be available on these dates. For emergencies, call 202-685-5569.
Bowl for Kid’s Sake Fundraiser
March 29, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Bowling Center inside Drill Hall Create a team of six people and register online at www.biglittle. org/BFKS2014. For more information, contact Pooja Sampathi at psampathi@biglittle.org or phone 410-243-4000.
Commissary Food Drive Underway
Through March 30 Shoppers at the Commissary are asked to donate basic non-perishable food items such as canned goods, soups, pasta, peanut butter, etc. Donated food items can be left on the large stand behind the checkout
counters for collection. All donations will benefit local area food banks.
Shelter in Place
Shelter in Place, the use of a safe area inside a building or structure during an event with little or no notice, is a viable course of action during unexpected situations or emergencies. Shelter in Place alerts will be sent out by emergency management through the AtHoc system or electronic/telephone messaging from the Wide Area Alert Notification system. Whatever the Shelter in Place scenario, if you are in a safe area, it is best to remain there until you receive an all clear from emergency management or until law enforcement personnel arrive. Visit www. ready.gov/shelter for more information.
Where’s Gnorman?
Somewhere in this issue we’ve hidden Gnorman the gnome. Anyone spotting Gnorman can email tester@dcmilitary. com or phone 301-342-4163 now through 5 p.m. Friday, and include a brief description of where he’s located. All correct answers are entered into a drawing and one name is chosen to win a Center Stage Theater movie ticket. The same person cannot win more than once per month. Last week’s winner was Carol Engle who found Gnorman on Page 3 in the St. Nicholas Chapel information box photo.
Off base: Walk a Mile in Her Shoes April 6, 2 p.m. St. Mary’s College of Maryland Track, St. Mary’s City This fourth annual event raises awareness to stop rape, assault and gender violence. Registration and participation is free. Check-in and shoe pick-up from 2-2:30 p.m. with laps beginning at 2:30 p.m. Refreshments are provided. Preregister by emailing mkroot@smcm.edu, or register the day of. Find the event on Facebook: SMCMFRN.
Public Workshop: Land Use Study Around Pax River
March 27, 6-8 p.m. Southern Maryland Higher Education Center This is the second Joint Land Use Study public workshop and features an update on the JLUS project, presents the air station’s mission footprint and seeks input from the public on prioritizing numerous compatibility issues. These issues include: land use, noise, frequency interference, aircraft safety zones, vertical obstructions and interagency coordination. Visit www. paxjlus.com, or contact George Clark at gclark@tccsmd.or or phone 301-274-1922.
St. Nicholas Chapel Service Schedule Catholic Services
Mass: Weekdays at 11:35 a.m. Fridays at 4:30 p.m. Sundays at 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Continuing Catholic Development (CCD): Sundays from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Stations of the Cross: Fridays at 5 p.m. Eucharistic adoration and confession: Fridays from 5-6 p.m.
Protestant Services
Worship: Sundays at 11 a.m. Men’s Discipleship: Sunday, 6-7:30 p.m. at the Religious Programming Center Women’s Study: Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m. and Thursday, 10-11:30 a.m. at the Religious Programming Center
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Thursday, March 13, 2014
MWR For all MWR news, visit www. cnic.navy.mil/Patuxent and click on the Fleet and Family Readiness tab.
River’s Edge Open for Lunch 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays
Bald Eagle Pub is Open
Phone directory Energy Zone - 301-995-3869 Liberty Center - 301-342-3565 River’s Edge - 301-342-3656 Customized Creations - 301-342-6293 Rassieur Youth Center - 301-342-1694 Information, Tickets and Travel Office 301-342-3648
Annual Leprechaun Leap
9 a.m. March 15 West Basin Marina Cost is $10 and includes an event T-shirt. Event is open to anyone with base access. Preregister at the Information, Tickets and Travel Office. Day of registration begins at 8 a.m.
Leprechaun Leap Command Challenge
Sign up to leap with your command, program office or organization; whichever has the largest showing wins a free rental of the MWR Beach House, upon availability.
CAREER
Continued from 1 He said he is most proud of working with the supportability team to keep the H-53K program moving toward its Milestone “C” certification, a five-year required certification that is part of the defense acquisition program process. Thanks to Ridley’s help, and bolstered by his 12 years of experience working on the H-53 from his former military career, the team received the certification. “Mr. Ridley provided both coordination and the necessary leadership to assist the program through its five-year independent logistics assessment (ILA) recertification. The program gained from Mr. Ridley’s experience, and Mr. Ridley gained by seeing the ILA through the program office perspective,” said Rob-
3-9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday Happy Hour Specials: 3-6 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays
Liberty March Madness Bracket Challenge
require a 21-day advance purchase. Vacations and tickets available to all hands, some restrictions do apply. The MWR ITT office sells Disney and Universal packages and tickets, cruises, all-inclusive vacation packages and vacation packages to just about everywhere.
Discounted tickets for following shows available:
Brackets due Monday Cost: Free
Mamma Mia! - National Theater Blue Man Group - National Theater West Side Story - National Theater The Lion King - Kennedy Center
Go-Kart Grand Prix
NYC Day Trip
March 22, bus departs at 11:30 a.m. Cost: $35
Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus Trip
March 23, bus departs at 12:45 p.m. Cost: $13
ITT Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays Building 2655, in front of the drill hall Planning a Spring Break vacation? Keep in mind that some tickets
ert Leavitt, the PMA-261 product support manager. For Ridley, the job rotation gave him the opportunity to experience real concepts beyond the classroom. “The rotation in PMA-261 really illustrated to me how dynamic, complex and rewarding it can be working in a program office,” he said. After the rotation, Ridley is applying his newfound skills of working with different types of employees in different environments. He works alongside other NLDP participants and alumni on the NLDP Action Council to propose solutions to issues that potentially impact employees and make suggestions to NAVAIR senior leaders. He also helps monitor NAVAIR’s digital suggestion box, a new initiative that gives employees a place to share new ideas and recommendations to existing policies or processes.
April 5 Cost: $65, includes bus transportation and snacks onboard Enjoy New York City in springtime. Call ITT at 301-342-3648.
Great Wolf Lodge Adventure
June 13-14 Cost: $468 Price includes a suite that sleeps six, six passes to the waterpark and $8 in arcade tokens. Great Wolf Lodge features a 67,000 square foot indoor entertainment area to
Scan to see more MWR events on Facebook. include its own gigantic waterpark. Available to all Pax River-eligible patrons. Order by May 15. Call ITT at 301-342-3648.
Garden Plots
Have you always wanted to have your own garden but don’t have the room or right conditions at home? Now is your chance. Register today to have your very own garden plot at NAS Pax River. Stop by the ITT Office.
Customized Creations Third Annual Spring Fling Arts and Crafts Show
Craft Show is April 26 Vendor Craft Spaces are $65; table and chairs are also available to rent. Call 301-342-6293.
Mattapany Day Camp Registration
Registration for this summer’s Mattapany Day Camp wraps up
Monday and Tuesday; these last two registration dates are for contractor employees.
Energy Zone Belly Dancing
7-8 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning in April Cost: $60 for eight-week session Register by March 31
Ballroom Dancing
6-8 p.m. Thursdays, beginning in April Cost: $48 Register by March 28
Zumba Kids
5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning in April Cost: $40 per child; $20 for each additional sibling or friend Register by April 14
FFSC
See more FFSC classes on Facebook.
All classes are held at the Fleet and Family Support Center in Building 2090 off Bundy Road unless otherwise noted. Classes are open to active-duty and retired military and Reservist. Reservations are necessary and can be made at FFSC or by calling 301-342-4911. Play Group: 10-11 a.m. Thursdays at the Religious Programs Center, Building 401. Transition GPS (TAP): 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through March 20, and 8 a.m. to 4p.m. March 21. Military Spouse 101: 1-4 p.m. Tuesday. How to Create a Budget: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday. Résumé Writing: 1-4 p.m. March 25. Budgeting for Baby at Building 401: 10 a.m. to noon March 26. Stress Management: 9-10:30 a.m. March 27.
Naval Air Station Patuxent River • tester@dcmilitary.com • www.facebook.com/NASPaxRiver The name Tester is a registered mark in the state of Maryland. This paper is published by Comprint, Inc., 9030 Comprint Ct., Gaithersburg, Md. 20877, (301) 9481520, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with Naval District Washington. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the Tester are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Navy. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Southern Maryland Newspapers and Printing of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall
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Commercial advertising may be placed with the publisher by calling 301-862-2111.
Capt. Ben Shevchuk
Donna Cipolloni
Capt. Heidi Fleming
Frederick C. Fair
Cmd. Master Chief William Lloyd-Owen
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Commanding Officer Executive Officer
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CENTER STAGE MOVIES Thursday, March 13
6:30 p.m., That Awkward Moment (Rated: R, 1 hr. 34 mins.) Three best friends find themselves where we’ve all been — at that confusing “moment” in every dating relationship when you have to decide “So where is this going?”
Friday, March 14
6:30 p.m., The Monuments Men (Rated: PG-13, 1 hr. 58 mins.) An unlikely World War II platoon is tasked by FDR with going into Germany to rescue artistic masterpieces from Nazi thieves and returning them to their rightful owners. It would be an impossible mission: with the art trapped behind enemy lines, and with the German army under orders to destroy everything as the Reich fell, how could these seven museum directors, curators and art historians, all more familiar with Michelangelo than the M-1, possibly hope to succeed? But as the Monuments Men, as they were called, found themselves in a race against time to avoid the destruction of 1000 years
of culture, they would risk their lives to protect and defend mankind’s greatest achievements. 9 p.m., Endless Love (Rated: PG-13, 1 hr. 45 mins.) This film is the story of a privileged girl and a charismatic boy whose instant desire sparks a love affair made only more reckless by parents trying to keep them apart.
Saturday, March 15
4 p.m., The Lego Movie (not in 3D) (Rated: PG, 1 hr. 34 mins.) The original computer animated story follows Emmet, an ordinary, rules-following, perfectly average LEGO minifigure who is mistakenly identified as the most extraordinary person and the key to saving the world. He is drafted into a fellowship of strangers on an epic quest to stop
an evil tyrant, a journey for which Emmet is hopelessly and hilariously underprepared. 6:30 p.m., Endless Love (Rated: PG-13, 1 hr. 45 mins.) 9 p.m., The Monuments Men (Rated: PG-13, 1 hr. 58 mins.)
Sunday, March 16
2 p.m., The Lego Movie (3D) (Rated: PG, 1 hr. 34 mins.)
Monday, March 17 and Tuesday, March 18 Theater is not open
Wednesday, March 19
6:30 p.m., The Monuments Men (Rated: PG-13, 1 hr. 58 mins.)
Doing research now can save dollars later Tuition Assistance Program College accreditation funds awaiting students type can affect By Susan D. Henson Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs
Sailors’ wallets
By Susan Henson Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs
Sailors working on completing a degree should ensure their school has the appropriate type of accreditation or it could cost them money later, Center for Personal and Professional Development education professionals said Feb. 24. “Most students know the school they attend should have some sort of accreditation as a way of ensuring the quality of their education, but they don’t understand how important the type of accreditation is in their school selection,” said Ernest D’Antonio, Center for Personal and Professional Development Navy Voluntary Education program director. “I’ve seen way too many examples of service members using their tuition assistance or G.I. Bill education benefits to earn a degree at a school whose credits aren’t transferrable to or recognized by other schools. And when a Sailor’s benefit is spent, it’s spent.” According to Raymond Sayre, director of the Navy College Office in San Diego, there are three kinds of accreditation.
Regional Accreditation
One is regional, which is granted by an accrediting organization
The Center for Personal and Professional Development (CPPD) is asking Sailors to submit their Navy Tuition Assistance (TA) requests — and now would be good, said the director of Navy Voluntary Education (VOLED) March 3.
More funding available this time around
Courtesy photo
Sailors can contact the Navy College Office for assistance in finding the right school and program for them; online at www.cnic.navy.mil/patuxent, click on Operations and Management, Facilities and Resources and then Educational Services. in one of six regions in the United States. “Regional accrediting organizations review educational institutions as a whole,” he said. “Schools with regionally accredited programs focus on academic theory for a full range of degrees from accounting to zoology at all educational levels.”
National Accreditation
National accreditation is another type. Sayre said nationally accredited institutions fill a different educational need than those with regional accreditation. “The real difference is that national accrediting bodies focus on operational/ technical skills. These accreditors
tend to focus on a particular discipline such as business or technical skills, or distance learning,” he said.
Specialized Accreditation
The third kind is accreditation for specialized programs and single-purpose organizations. A specialized accreditation is typically granted for a particular section or discipline within a regionally accredited educational institution, such as for a school’s law, medical or engineering program. It’s confusing because it’s complicated, according to D’Antonio. “The key for Sailors is to understand how
See College, Page 10
According to Ernest D’Antonio, CPPD’s VOLED program director, the expenditure rate for TA funding is currently below normal levels, which means there’s more funding available than usual at this time of the year. “We use historical ‘burn rates’ as a guide for allocating TA funding throughout the year,” he said. Lt. Cmdr. Mark Wadsworth, director of CPPD Support Site Saufley Field in Pensacola, leads the team that monitors CPPD’s Navy TA spending. He said fiscal 2014 TA execution is currently trail-
ing fiscal 2013’s execution rate by just over $6 million year-to-date. “We think a variety of things influenced our being below the TA budget right now,” said Wadsorth. “Our execution rate dropped in October with the government shutdown, steadily increased in November and December, but thendropped back down in January, probably due to uncertainty with the federal budget. Although we have funding now, the usage rate hasn’t increased significantly since then.” D’Antonio said more than 25,000 Sailors have used TA benefits so far this fiscal year and emphasized that a Sailor’s command is an important part of TA authorizations because they’re the first step in the process after a Sailor submits a request.
Getting TA approval
D’Antonio also recommended each command approver continually review the Sailor’s education progress. “Our biggest reason for disapproval of TA requests is that they
See Tuition, Page 14
Connect with the Center for Personal and Professional Development Website:
www.netc.navy.mil/centers/cppd Facebook:
www.facebook.com/pages/Center-for-Personal-and-ProfessionalDevelopment/100056459206 Twitter:
@CENPERSPROFDEV
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Thursday, March 13, 2014
Women’s History Month
Melissa Denihan
For this doctor, the focus is on organizational health By Paula A. Paige Acquisition Program Management (AIR 1.0) Public Affairs
Dr. Melissa Denihan may not wear a lab coat or wield a surgeon’s scalpel, but she’s an expert at prescribing the best medicine for the acquisition professionals attending Naval Air System Command’s (NAVAIR) College of Program Management. Armed with a doctorate degree in human and organizational learning, Denihan, who works at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, oversees the development of the recently launched college’s curriculum. Her duties include defining the training needs and gaps of the program management workforce, developing course content, evaluating current training for relevance and utility to the workforce, and representing the college in the larger NAVAIR University construct. Denihan’s background makes her well-equipped to cure what ails the program management workforce, said her supervisor Anthony Manich. “Melissa has been a tremendous addition to our organization,” said Manich, the deputy assistant commander for Acquisition Program
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Management (AIR 1.0). “Her undeniable education and experience provides her the unique ability to look at our organization from an academic perspective as well as a working knowledge of competency aligned organizations.” As the nation and DOD celebrates Women’s History Month in March, Denihan’s tale of how she attained advanced degrees and became an expert in her field serves as an inspiring story for women everywhere. HOW SHE DID IT: “I came to NAVAIR straight out of college in 1997, initially working as a business financial manager for the F/A-18 program. As I pursued my graduate education, I moved into positions that better aligned with my career aspirations. In 2000, I accepted a position serving as an internal organizational development consultant for senior leadership at NAVAIR, NAWCAD [Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division] and AIR 4.0 [the engineering competency] as well as various program offices. A few years later, I worked as a human factors psychologist with AIR-4.6 [Human Systems Laboratory]. Throughout this time, I went to school full time in the evenings and weekends
U.S. Navy photo/Paula A. Paige
Director of Naval Air Systems Command’s College of Program Management, Dr. Melissa Denihan meets with Anthony Manich, the deputy assistant commander for Acquisition Program Management (AIR 1.0) March 6 in his office at Naval Air Station Patuxent River to discuss the institution’s curriculum. and completed both my master’s and doctoral degrees. “When I finished my doctorate in 2005, I joined the Navy, serving on active duty as an aerospace experimental psychologist stationed at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla. I went through flight and aeromedical training, and I earned my aerospace experimental psychologist aviation wings. For my next set of orders, I came back to NAWCAD in 2006 for my second active-duty assignment doing research on unmanned aircraft systems’ op-
erator stations, focusing on humancomputer interface issues. A year and a half later, I was temporarily assigned to the Presidential Helicopters Program Office, where I served as the lead systems engineer for the VH-71 trainers. From 2008 to 2011, I was assigned to the Naval Aviation Training Systems Program Office working as the Advanced Training Technologies integrated product team lead, where I focused on common training needs across all of naval aviation, collaborat-
Position: Director, NAVAIR College of Program Management Responsibilities: Oversees the development of the College of Program Management’s curriculum; also functions as a technical expert in organizational behavior and organizational learning for the Acquisition Program Management’s (AIR 1.0) leadership. Education: Doctorate degree in human and organizational learning; master’s in organizational management; graduate certificate in leadership coaching; two bachelor’s degrees, one in psychology, the other in business and management. ing with academia, industry and other services to identify emerging technologies to meet those needs. When I started my family in 2011, I transitioned from active duty to the NAVAIR Reserve Program. I then went to work for Booz Allen Hamilton as a management consultant, leading its Lexington Park office’s strategic planning and organizational development team. In late 2012, I returned to NAVAIR as a civilian and am now the director of the College of Program Management.”
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Navy’s X-47B team receives prestigious aviation award By Katie Coughlan Carrier Unmanned Aviation Program Office (PMA-268) Communications Support
The X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System Demonstration (UCASD) team was honored by Aviation Week and Space Technology magazine as a winner of the publication’s prestigious Laureate Awards during a ceremony March 6 in Washington, D.C. Recognized for its work in the Aeronautics and Propulsion category, the X-47B UCAS-D team demonstrated the capability to operate a tailless, full-size Unmanned Air System (UAS) in the carrier environment, a first for naval aviation. “It has truly been a phenomenal year for this team,” said Rear Adm. Mat Winter, who oversees the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons. “This award is a well-
UCAS-D team made history with first-ever unmanned launch and recovery at sea
30 touch-and-goes Eight catapult launches Seven arrested landings aboard All while onboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71).
deserved recognition for the X47B team and underpins the historical significance and dedication of the hundreds of civilian, military and industry teammates who were instrumental in executing the technical achievements required to operate the first-ever carrier-capable UAS.” Because of the UCAS-D team’s efforts, the X-47B conducted the first-ever launch and recovery of an unmanned air vehicle from a carrier at-sea. In 2013, the X-47B con-
U.S. Navy photo
ducted eight catapult launches, 30 touch-and-goes and seven arrested landings while aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). “Our combined Navy and Northrop Grumman industry team is most deserving of this elite recognition for its tireless efforts to meet program objectives, while successfully demonstrating and maturing the critical technologies required for a carrier suitable, persistent unmanned air system,” said Capt. Beau Duarte, program manager for the Unmanned Car-
rier Aviation Program Office at Naval Air Station Patuxent River. Duarte said the team continues to refine the concept of operations to fully demonstrate the effective integration of unmanned carrier-based aircraft within the current carrier environment to reduce technical risk for the followon Unmanned Carrier Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) program. The X-47B demonstration activities have validated the feasibility to operate unmanned aircraft in the harsh carrier environment
and has helped develop the concept of operations and demonstrate the required technologies for a future unmanned carrier-based system. Established more than 50 years ago, the Aviation Week Laureate Awards recognize the accomplishments of individuals and teams in the aerospace, aviation and defense industry, according to the organization’s website. The finalists’ “achievements embody the spirit of exploration, innovation and vision that inspire others to strive for significant, broadreaching progress in these fields,” according to the website.
Deaths from motorcycle accidents on the rise Navywide By Beverly Jeffas Naval Air Station Patuxent River Safety Department
No matter where you’re at or the type of bike you’re on, it’s a wellknown fact that motorcycle riding is a high-risk activity. Mid-way through this fiscal year and Sailor deaths from motorcycle mishaps are already reaching that of fiscal 2013’s; a startling statistic that could be prevented with instruction and training. While we’ve been fortunate at Naval Air Station Pax River and haven’t had any motorcycle accident-related deaths in more than a decade, this spike in Navywide deaths emphasizes the importance of riding safely with the proper training and gear. That should be second nature for active-duty servicemembers as they are required to meet training and motorcycle gear mandates in accordance with the OPNAV Instruction 5100.12J, Navy Traffic Safety Program.
The Stats Training to develop and sharpen the skills necessary to safely ride a motorcycle can often help the operator avoid or, at a minimum, reduce the severity of a motorcycle accident. Unfortunately, the Navywide training compliance rate for the mandatory motorcycle training courses is currently at 71 percent, with NAS Patuxent River at 86 percent. Regardless of the make and style of the bike ridden, all active-duty
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Servicemembers are required to wear certain motorcycle gear at all times when they are on the motorcycle, both on and off the base. military motorcyclists riding on or off road at any time must complete the initial motorcycle rider training course and meet these additional training requirements:
Sport Bikes
Within 60 days of completing the Basic Rider Course (BRC) or following the purchase of a sport bike, sport bike operators must also complete the Military SportBike Rider Course (MSRC) regardless of the motorcycle used for BRC. The MSRC must be completed at least every three years thereafter.
Standard Motorcycles and Cruisers
All standard and cruiser style motorcycle operators have to complete the Basic Rider Course 2 (BRC2), formerly called the Experienced Rider Course (ERC), or the Advanced Rider Course, within 60 days of completing the BRC, or following the purchase of
Basic Rider Course:
Monday and Tuesday, March 20-21
Basic Rider Course 2: March 26
Military SportBike Rider: March 27 Call the Safety Department at 301-995-4960.
a standard or cruiser style motorcycle. This is regardless of the motorcycle used for the BRC. Standard and cruiser operators must complete BRC2 or the Advanced Rider Course at least every three years thereafter.
Three-wheeled and Attached Sidecars
Three-wheeled motorcycles and motorcycles with attached sidecars are excluded from the training requirement. After successfully completing the
Fiscal 2013 first 6 months
required motorcycle safety courses, participants are issued a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Course Completion card which must be carried at all times as proof of successfully completing the course. Failure to produce the card when requested by authorized personnel, such as security, can result in being denied base access.
Classes Available
Safety offers motorcycle courses free to active-duty military. Retired military, current and retired DOD employees, and family members can also take the base course at no charge, but are enrolled as a “wait list” enrollee. For the motorcycle safety course schedule and to enroll, active-duty military should go to their ESAMS account and click on “Classroom Training Schedule.” Active-duty members in need of assistance with ESAMS should contact their activity Safety Specialist. Others should call the Safety Department at 301995-4960.
Fiscal 2014 first 6 months
Motorcycle Gear
Courtesy graphic
Although only active-duty military are required to take training courses to operate motorcycles on the installation, all motorcycle riders, including passengers, are required to wear certain motorcycle gear while riding on base. The required gear includes a properly worn Department of Transportation helmet, impact or shatter resistant eye protection, sturdy over the ankle footwear that affords protection for the feet and ankles, long sleeved shirt or jacket, long trousers and full-fingered gloves or mittens designed for use on a motorcycle. To enhance the ability of other vehicle operators to see and avoid motorcyclists, outer garments constructed of brightly colored, fluorescent or reflective materials are highly recommended. Military personnel are required to wear this gear at all times when they are on the motorcycle, both on and off the base. For more information on classes or requirements, call 301-995-4960.
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Nimitz’s WWII ‘Diary’ unveiled online By Paul Taylor Naval History and Heritage Command
The Naval War College Library in Newport, R.I., publicly unveiled online the 4,000-page “Gray Book” collection of Fleet Adm. Chester Nimitz communications that started in the wake of the Pearl Harbor attack and ran right up until the closing days of the war. The event was held Feb. 24 to commemorate Nimitz’s 129th birthday. “There’s perhaps no greater champion of freedom in the history of the United States Navy than Chester Nimitz and his leadership of the Pacific Fleet during World War II,” said Naval War College President Rear Adm. Walter E. “Ted” Carter, Jr. Naval History and Heritage Command’s Operational Archives, which possesses the physical collection, provided expertise and support to the Naval War College effort to publish the high-
NAVAIR names Junior Sailor of the Year
U.S. Navy photo
Senior Navy officers visit Saipan in 1944. Present are, from left, Adm. Raymond A. Spruance, Commander Fifth Fleet; Adm. Ernest J. King, Chief of Naval Operations and Commander in Chief, U.S. Fleet; Adm. Chester W. Nimitz, Commander in Chief Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean Areas; and Army Brig. Gen. Sanderford Jarman. Aircraft in the background is a B-24/ PB4Y-1 type. quality, digital version of the documents. The World War II historic treasure, named for the color of its original cover, is a daily record of the com-
bat situation in the Pacific Theater and responses of the Commander in Chief, Pacific, and Pacific Ocean Areas (Nimitz) throughout the war. Staff member
Capt. James Steele began it on the day Pearl Harbor was attacked and ended it on Aug. 31, 1945, just two days before the formal end of the war.
NAVAIR names Junior Sailor of the Year
Courtesy photo
Vice Adm. David Dunaway, commander of Naval Air Systems Command, presents Petty Officer 2nd Class Rachel Marrs with the command’s Junior Sailor of the Year award at a ceremony held at the Washington Planning Center at the Washington Navy Yard, D.C., Feb. 25. Marrs, an information assurance officer, supports the Strike Planning and Execution Systems Program Office (PMA-281) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River.
Commands celebrate service, continued commitment
Shirley gets promoted
U.S. Navy photo/ATC (AW) Pharaoh S. McMillian
Capt. Kurt Chivers, left, pins new lieutenant bars on Ryan Shirley during a promotion ceremony March 4. Shirley, who arrived at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in December, works in the V-22 Joint Program Office (PMA-275).
U.S. Navy photo/ATC (AW) Pharaoh S. McMillian
Embach retires after 33 years
Linda Embach, Naval Air Systems Command Maintenance and Supply Integration (NAVAIR 6.7.2.1), left, is presented with a shadow box from Chief Petty Officer (AW) Doyle Gunn during her retirement ceremony Feb. 20. Embach retired after 33 years of service with the Naval Aviation Maintenance Program where she was the chief editor for Commander, Naval Air Forces Instruction 4790.2, commonly referred to as the “bible” of naval aviation maintenance.
Sohl earns Legion of Merit
U.S. Navy photo/Noel Hepp
Vice Adm. David Dunaway, commander of Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), left, presents a Legion of Merit medal to Rear Adm. Paul Sohl, Feb. 24, for his meritorious service as the commander of Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Center in California from August 2012 to August 2013. During that time, Sohl led a workforce of more than 6,600 people in research, laboratory development and design, warfare analysis, electronic warfare, targets and threat simulation, range operations, and flight test in support of Navy and Marine Corps requirements and weapons systems deployed worldwide. Sohl is now the commander of Fleet Readiness Centers and the NAVAIR assistant commander for Logistics and Industrial Operations (Air 6.0) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River.
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Continued from 5 accreditation directly relates to their educational goals,” he said. “This is part of why Navy College Program education professionals exist — to help Sailors make the best choice for them.” Sayre pointed out that one type of accreditation isn’t necessarily better than the others; it is simply contingent on the student’s objectives. “It depends on what professional path Sailors are choosing,” he said. “If they want a hands-on career in the vocational or technical
world such as auto repair, electronics, nuclear technician, etc., they may benefit by choosing a school with national accreditation. If their choice is the academic world — teacher, law, business or doctor, for example — they ought to choose regional accreditation. Many nationally accredited schools offer advanced vocational or technical education and training programs that are excellent and meet the needs for which they were designed.” A handful of schools have both regional and national accreditation, but Sayre said it isn’t common.
Evaluate costs, financial aid access and graduation rates
Navy College Office, Sailors only: Building 2189, Room 145; call 301-757-4111; visit https://www.navycollege.navy.mil Virtual Education Center, Sailors only: Call 1-877-838-1659; visit https://www.navycollege.navy.mil/ncp/vec.aspx U.S. Department of Education, available to anyone: http://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator Gary Henwood, an educational services specialist at Navy College Office (NCO) Whidbey Island, Wash., said it’s important for Sailors to view their school choice in the broader spec-
trum of their current — and future — educational goals. “When Sailors apply for commissioning programs such as Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program or Seaman-to-Admiral 21, the
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participating universities and colleges are regionally accredited and may not accept credits from nationally accredited schools.” For this reason, Henwood advises Sailors specifically trying for a commission to ensure they attend an accredited school whose credits are transferrable to other programs since it’s up to each school what transfer credits it will accept. Sailors not applying for a commissioning program should still carefully consider how they’re using the Tuition Assistance program to complete classes toward their degree, or it could result in bad news. Henwood gave an example of a Sailor he worked with last year who completed a Bachelor of Science in Business from a nationally accredited school, which he used Navy Tuition Assistance to complete. He then applied to a regionally accredited school’s MBA program, but that school didn’t honor his bachelor’s degree. “Because the Navy only pays for one bachelor’s degree, he will have to go back and pay outof-pocket for a regionally accredited degree program or return to the original school for its MBA, which limits his choices.”
While this is one example, there is no steadfast rule. Sayre pointed out that some regionally accredited schools do accept credits earned from a nationally accredited school. “A degree from many nationally accredited schools can make you eligible for a commissioning program, depending on which school you earned your degree from,” Sayre said. “Also, a high-tech degree from a nationally accredited school may make you more competitive for employment after completion of military obligation.” “Degree types are an individual choice,” Sayre said. “Our job as counselors is to provide information — without opinion — that enables the individual to make educated choices.” Sayre said Sailors should thoroughly research schools and ask the right questions. “Any school an individual is going to invest in should be ‘checked out’ to ensure the institution is able to meet the needs and long-term goals of the individual. Impartial, professional counseling and advisement is critical,” he said.
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Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is helping Sailors and Marines to do just that by offering an informative workshop called Budget for Baby. “The class provides information about the financial impact of adding to your family,” explained Maureen Farrell, director of the NMCRS office at Naval Air Station Patuxent River. “We talk to parents, new and experienced, about the financial things to consider during the baby’s first year and beyond; and participants also share their own experience and tips with the group.” Attendees learn strategies for making good financial decisions, information about benefits, pay entitlements and the tax implications of parenthood, as well as where to find local community resources and programs that provide assistance for families with children. They may also schedule an appointment for free personalized family financial counseling to help adjust to the increased costs of adding another family member. Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Chelsea Brown, with Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic is expecting her first child in August and recently attended the class with her husband, Curtis. “We found it beneficial because we learned ways to manage our money by making the most of our budget and received tips for cutting back on some of our expenses,” she said. “The class gave us an idea of what to expect and I now feel more at ease and less stressed out.” Farrell said that in the 13 years she’s been instructing the two-hour class, she has seen more than 1,200 participants come through. “NMCRS gives so much to help Sailors and Marines,” Brown said. “I’m so grateful for it all.”
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Lonjers wins Legal Command Junior Officer of the Quarter Lt. Joey Lonjers’s accomplishments
In addition to spearheading efforts in creating a sexual assault response exercise to train commands on how to better respond to sexual assault complaints last quarter, Lonjers has: Provided nearly 200 legal assistance services to more than 90 clients Provided legal advice and support to more than 100 command service issues Drafted eight ethics opinions Supervised two litigation reports; and Served as a reorder on a board of inquiry. Courtesy photo
Naval Air Station Patuxent River Commanding Officer Capt. Ben Shevchuk congratulates Lt. Joey Lonjers from the Region Legal Service Office Naval District Washington, Branch Office Patuxent River, for her selection as the Naval Legal Service Command Junior Officer of the Quarter, first quarter fiscal 2014, during the air station’s quarters Feb. 27 at Center Stage Theater. Lonjers, who arrived at Pax River in 2013, is the first staff judge advocate assigned to Pax River in more than a decade and serves as the branch head for both Pax River and Naval Support Activity South Potomac, Va. 1039211
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PEO(T) spotlight award
Public Workshop on Land Use Study around NAS Patuxent River The public is invited to participate in an interactive workshop in support of developing the Joint Land Use Study (JLUS). The JLUS is a cooperative planning effort between Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS PAX) and communities in the region. The objective of the study is to develop a set of recommendations that will promote well-suited compatibility growth and economic development compatible with military training and operations being conducted by NAS PAX. The purpose of the second public workshop is to provide an update on the JLUS project, present the NAS PAX military mission footprint, and to obtain input from the public on prioritizing the compatibility issues, such as, land use, noise, frequency interference, aircraft safety zones, vertical obstructions, and interagency coordination. The second set of workshops will be held throughout the region in four different locations, and each workshop will be tailored to the specific location it is being conducted in. U.S. Navy photo
The Advanced Recovery Control (ARC) CVN 71 Power Distribution Unit (PDU) Foundation Team, comprising members from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and Naval Air Station Patuxent River, recently received the Program Executive Office Tactical Air Programs (PEO(T)) Spotlight Award for the expeditious manner it resolved an ARC PDU installation issue preventing any adverse impact to CVN 71’s schedule. After being alerted that the ARC light-off installation was flawed, the team worked to correct the deficiency prior to Flight Deck Certification (FDC). The plan called for installation to occur after Sea Trials during a two-week window prior to FDC, leaving only a six-week manufacture window. During this timeframe, the ship’s Sea Trial date was moved up leaving less time to correct the problem. The team was able to procure the material, manufacture the foundation and have it shipped to Norfolk within four weeks to meet the accelerated installation date. Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst team members, from left, John Leiter, Vinne Favale, Kenneth Speer, Pete Larkin, Lenny Van Houten, Kevin Kasper, Matt Webster, Janice Malone, Pat Dempsey, Wayne Kovacs, Paul Avenoso and Bill Miller; other members, not shown, include Maureen Wortham, Bob Kernasovic and Bill Leamon, from the Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment Program Office (PMA-251) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River.
The Southern Maryland region workshop will be held for St. Mary’s County, Charles County, and Calvert County on: Date: Time: Location:
March 27, 2014 - Thursday 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Southern Maryland Higher Education Center 44219 Airport Road California, MD 20619
The public is encouraged to attend this workshop. It is critical to obtain input from the community in order to develop a plan that is responsive to local needs. Please join us to hear about the JLUS and provide your input on local land use issues relevant to the JLUS. For more information, visit the project’s website at: www.paxjlus.com or contact: George Clark, CCTM, MWD-BS Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland Phone: 301.274.1922 E-mail: gclark@tccsmd.org
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Move-In Mo ve-In NOW NOW at Hopyard Farm F arm
NEW Homes in A Master-Planned Riverfront Community NEW SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES from $265,900 HOPYARD FARM Featuring the DC area’s lowest tax rate 15 minutes to Fredericksburg VRE station with easy access to Southern Maryland! Live with the best amenities in the Fredericksburg area right outside your door step in a beautiful master-planned riverfront community. Enjoy the convenience of state-of-the-art fitness center, billiard room, and more in a 10,000 square foot clubhouse.
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Correcting maintenance issues through facility coordinators By Donna Cipolloni Tester staff writer
Who ya gonna call? If your problem involves a hovering blob of green ectoplasm, the answer to that question is obvious; but for more mundane issues, such as a blown light fixture, unwanted pests or a leaky toilet, you’ll need to contact your building’s facility coordinator. “Every person on base belongs to a building and almost every building has a facility coordinator who is responsible for maintenance issues in and around a building, including the parking lot,” explained JP Thomasseau, Public Works deputy officer. “That facility coordinator is a knowledgeable person who will know what to do and who to call to fix the situation in the most efficient and economic manner.” Suppose someone sees a light out in the hallway and calls it in directly for repair. If three other employees in the same building do the same thing, the result could be four separate trouble tickets issued for the same problem — which means four separate fees charged. “If a contractor comes to a building to replace a light and that light has already been replaced, it’s still a billable service call,” Thomasseau said. “By centralizing those calls, the facility coordinator has the authority to initiate the trouble ticket, obligate the government for the funds to fix only what’s needed, and will call once and only once about the issue, which also helps prevent the system from being overloaded.”
Courtesy graphic
Facility coordinators know what to do and who to call to fix problems within their buildings. If you do not know your building’s facility coordinator, make an effort to find out by asking a supervisor or other member of your command management. If you’ve exhausted every other avenue and still cannot locate your building’s facility coordinator, contact Jeff Boyd, Public Works facility support contract manager, at Jeffery.Boyd1@navy.mil or 301-757-4895 and he’ll attempt to assist you. For problems around base not obviously affiliated with a specific building — such as a street light out, pothole, storm damage to a shed or storage building, dead animal, downed tree or wire, gushing water, hazardous spill — call the Public Works Duty Officer at 202-4397459, where someone will answer 24/7. “Make sure you supply as much information as possible,” Thomasseau said. “The more information we have, the quicker a problem can be located.”
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AROUND TOWN St. Mary’s County events: Annual Spring Book Sale
Friday, 1-8 p.m. (members only; join at door) Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, noon to 3 p.m. County Fairgrounds, Leonardtown Books, audiobooks, puzzles, games, LPs. Volunteers needed before, during and after the sale; phone 301-863-9368 or email stmarysfol@gmail.com to volunteer.
BMX Racing
Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon Lexington Park library Find out about the basics of BMX racing: what it is, where to go, and how to get started. Presented by Mike’s Bikes.
Vacations for Vets Quarter Auction
Sunday, doors open 1 p.m.; auction 2 p.m.
Brass Rail, Route 5, Great Mills Southern Maryland Vacations for Vets is sponsoring a quarter auction to raise funds for free weekend retreats for service members and their families. Cost is $3 per paddle or two for $5. Refreshments and 50/50 raffle tickets available for purchase. For more information, contact Connie Pennington at cdpennington@ icloud.com or 301-904-0707.
Concert: Shady Rill
Sunday, 7 p.m. State House, St. Mary’s City Patti Casey and Tom MacKenzie return to the State House offering a program of traditional and original harmonies and skilled instrumentation. Cost: $15, or $12 for “Friends”; for information, visit www.hsmcdigshistory.org.
Free Tax Preparation Assistance
Monday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Charlotte Hall library Wednesday, 2-6 p.m., Lexington Park library
LifeStyles of Maryland, Inc. will be offering free tax preparation by IRS-certified volunteers. Persons should make $51,000 or less to be eligible for free tax preparation.
St. Patty’s Day Celebration at the Inn
Monday, 4-7 p.m. Inn at Brome Howard, St. Mary’s City Join us as we celebrate Irish-style with an hors d’oeuvre buffet of shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, bangars and mash, and more. Cost is $17 plus tax and gratuity.
Calvert County events: Yes! You Can Use a Computer
Saturday, 10-11 a.m. Job Seeking. Participants will learn some useful websites and tips to use for job searching. Training will last one hour and take place in a small group. Register at 410-535-0291.
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aren’t received from the Sailor’s command approver prior to the course start date, as required by DOD instruction. Often when we review a TA request, a Sailor may be missing some of the TA prerequisites such as a current education counseling by a Navy College Office (NCO) or Virtual Education Center (VEC) counselor, or an individual education plan or degree plan on file, or missing a grade from a past course,” he said.
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Insta-Artist Exhibit
Annmarie Gardens Friday through June 1 Inspired by the smart phone, the explosion of social sharing websites and photo-editing applications, Insta-Artist features photos taken by cell phone and edited through Instagram and other phone photo-editing apps showcasing each artist’s unique perspective of the world around us.
Sunday Afternoon with the Pattersons Tour
Sunday, 2-3 p.m. Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum Point Farm was the country retreat of the late Mr. & Mrs. Jefferson Patterson. In 1983, Mrs. Patterson donated the property to the state in honor of her late husband, creating Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum. Join us for a guided tour of this 1933 Colonial Revival brick house and gardens designed by noted female architects Gertrude Sawyer and Rose Greely. For reservations call 410-586-8501 or email jppm@mdp.state.md.us.
VOLED professionals work with Sailors to get the requirements in on time, but if the Sailor’s account is incomplete or not updated before the course start date, they are unable to fund the TA request, D’Antonio said.
30 days out is not too soon
“So I repeat this message constantly: ‘30 days prior to the course start date is not too soon for Sailors to submit their TA request.’ In fact, a TA application can be submitted a year before the actual class start date, which will help ensure the Sailor’s TA request is funded and allows us to better manage expenditures.” he said.
n Federal/Civilian/Military Transition Résumés n n Database Input n Résumé Writing Training n n KSA’s n Job Search Assistance n n
Situation Specific Writing Projects n
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H H NON-EMPLOYMENT RELATED SVCS H H Please call Phyllis Houston at 301-574-3956
OPEN TO EVERYONE ON BASE
Little Flower School 2014 Mulch Sale
Active, Retired, Civil Service, Contractor, Other If you are on base you can take advantage of these prices
Liberty Tax at the Navy Exchange announces FLAT FEE pricing on your state and federal tax returns $120 Federal 1040 $35 Each State
• Hardwood mulch for $4.00 for a 3 cubic foot bag • Free delivery for orders of 20 or more bags. Orders will be delivered between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. We will only deliver to St. Mary’s County, North of St. Mary’s City and South of Route 234. Orders outside this area will have to be picked up at the school. Pick up times are from 7:00am to 2:00pm.
Visit our Kiosk in the Navy Exchange Food Court or call (301) 373-0838 Proceeds to the NEX help benefit MWR
• Order forms available from the school or at
http://www.facebook.com/events/130944850412634/
Orders need to be received with payment by March 4th. Pick-up and Delivery Date is Saturday, March 15th Cash and Carry Available While Supplies Last From 7am-2pm
Please Call LFS at 301-994-0404 20410 Point Lookout Road • Great Mills, Maryland 20634 Email: LFSOffice@littleflowercatholic.org Website: www.littleflowercatholic.org
866-871-1040 LibertyTax.com
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FREE Three Day and Two Night Vacation Voucher with Every Tax Return Preparation. See NEX Kiosk for Details. Locally Owned and Operated by a Navy Veteran
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Valid at participating locations. Cannot be combined with other offers or used toward past services. Other exclusions may apply. Void where prohibited by law. Valid 1/29/14-4/10/14 on NAS Patuxent River Only.
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